Shocking Statement in Alanya: Thousands of Buildings at Risk of Demolition

Shocking Warning in Alanya: Majority of Buildings Over 25 Years Old Found to Be at Risk

Geophysical Engineer Kaptanoğlu reported that 672 buildings are at risk and urged property owners: “Have your buildings inspected.”

672 OUT OF 686 BUILDINGS FOUND RISKY IN ALANYA

Geophysical Engineer and Honorary Board Member of the Chamber of Geophysical Engineers, İhsan Erman Kaptanoğlu, stated that inspections revealed 672 out of 686 buildings in Alanya to be at risk. Most of these structures are over 25 years old.

EARTHQUAKE REGULATIONS ARE CONSTANTLY UPDATED

Kaptanoğlu highlighted that Turkey's earthquake regulations have been updated eight times in total: in 1947, 1953, 1961, 1968, 1975, 1998, 2007, and 2018, in response to evolving technology and needs.

URBAN TRANSFORMATION & 50-YEAR LIFESPAN CRITERION

He emphasized that the general lifespan of modern buildings is around 50 years, but due to Alanya’s climate conditions—such as salty air and humidity—this duration can be shorter. Buildings constructed before 2000 are at high risk due to lack of supervision, poor concrete quality, and often absence of reinforced steel.

IS ALANYA UNDER EARTHQUAKE THREAT?

Kaptanoğlu noted that although there is no major fault line within Alanya, surrounding tectonic systems increase the risk. He pointed to the Hellenic Arc, Cyprus Arc, and increasing seismic activity in the Antalya Basin.

ALLUVIAL SOIL INCREASES EARTHQUAKE IMPACT

He explained that buildings on coastal or streamside alluvial soil will feel earthquakes more severely. “Owners of buildings over 25 years old must have them inspected,” he warned.

CRITICAL WARNING FROM KAPTANOĞLU

“Earthquakes are inevitable, but disasters are not,” said Kaptanoğlu, stressing that structural safety must be ensured through science and engineering. “Instead of panicking after every small quake, we must strengthen our buildings,” he added.